For a single boiler machine, the Crossland Coffee CC1 packs a punch with advanced features. Built with a dedicated thermoblock for steaming—a feature most single boilers lack—it whips up frothy milk in minutes! Not to mention it helps reduce the heating time. The digital display’s seamless design allows users to easily program the built-in PID or save up to three espresso profiles. In comparison, the Rancilio Silvia M, another single boiler favorite, features a simple switch interface and factory settings; however, we offer the option to add on a PID. That said, without the PID the Silvia M’s interface operates with simple controls. If you crave control over your coffee, the CC1 offers easily adjusted settings to make coffee you love at home. The Crossland Coffee CC1 features a programmable PID and three espresso profiles.
Shot
The programmable PID displayed on the Crossland Coffee CC1 lets users set their ideal brew temperature and maintains consistency to perfect your shot. While you’re programming the brew temperature, customize the pre-infusion, brew and wait time for your three profiles—oh, and the pod profile is your third profile since the CC1 does not work with pods. That’s a lot of customizable options this machine! The CC1 comes with a 58mm non-pressurized portafilter.Coffee connoisseurs yearning to hone in their barista skills will love the CC1’s 58mm portafilter—trending to be the industry’s standard—and the option to purchase the CC1 bottomless portafilter. If you’re getting serious with your coffee, the bottomless portafilter opens a window into extracting espresso. While there are different indicators of good espresso, one of our favorites to observe is tiger striping—when espresso cascades with blond and brown stripes to show even extraction.
Steam
As with any single boiler machine, we recommend baristas first froth milk and then pull shots. With the added thermoblock, though the Crossland Coffee CC1 reaches steam temperature in no time! But before you start frothing, purge the condensation—a good practice—and give the thermoblock some time to heat up to avoid sputtering. When it’s ready to go, the CC1 produces steady power that is perfect for entry-level baristas. It allows you time to work the milk, hone your technique for frothing. Thanks to the thermoblock, the CC1 gets up to steam temperature quicker. With the CC1’s articulating steam wand, finding a comfortable angle to work the milk is incredibly easy. The wand’s L-shape design and extra long tip clear the underside of the machine to allow you room to pivot your pitcher. The CC1’s traditional wand is mounted on the underside, which means we can’t adjust the steam wand higher; however, all things considered, the wand is incredibly accessible. If you’re ready to improve your latte art, the CC1 is one of the machines we’ve enjoyed practicing on!
Style
The Crossland Coffee CC1 sensible, clean-cut style works in your favor, coffee lovers. The CC1 focuses on features and capabilities while maintaining an affordable price. We often hear people say they’re attracted to the CC1’s industrial stainless steel case. Paired with the boxy construction—reminiscent of traditional espresso machines—the CC1 is pretty identical to the Rancilio Silvia M. The most noticeable differences is the CC1’s digital display that adds a modern touch. Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the classic boxy body and L-shaped steam wand.The CC1 recently underwent an upgrade and we got to say, we give it two thumbs up! The three-way solenoid valve uses to block the water tank, but now it’s situated inside the machine. The water tank is a touchy subject for some of us—it can be difficult to remove. The portafilter and wand tend to get in the way as well as the water tubes located inside the tank. With the right maneuvering and patience, we can get the CC1 up and brewing!
Conclusion
The Crossland Coffee CC1 packs in fantastic features for a single boiler machine. The programmable PID and three profiles let baristas customize their espresso to their perfect drink. While we may not be able to brew and steam at the same time, the dedicated thermoblock for steaming adds enough extra boost to froth beautifully. If you’re ready to hone your barista skills, check out the CC1! Share your thoughts on the CC1 in the comments below.
